Top Techniques to Soften Linen: Gentle Care for Clothes and Sheets

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Linen is a wonderful natural fabric with a reputation for timeless elegance. Known for its breathability and durability, linen becomes softer and more comfortable with every wash. However, brand-new linen items can start out feeling somewhat stiff. Here are a few top techniques for accelerating the softening process and enjoying the luxurious feel of supple linen. 

How can we make linen softer? 

There are several ways to soften linen, both through regular washing and special treatments. Some of the most effective methods include: 

  • Washing: Simply washing your linen will soften it over time. 

  • Baking soda: This natural softener can be added to your wash cycle. 

  • White vinegar: Adding white vinegar to the wash or using it  in a pre-soak helps break down the fibres. 

  • Tumble drying: Drying with tennis balls or dryer balls can speed up the softening process. Placing a tennis ball or a dryer ball into the tumble drier with your laundry can help speed up the softening process. 

  • Fabric softener: Commercial fabric softeners are designed to soften clothes. 

Does washing linen make it softer? 

Absolutely! Washing your linen frequently is the key to making it softer. Each wash cycle helps wear down the stiffer fibres, leading to a more supple feel against your skin. 

How to soften linen clothing 

To soften linen clothing, follow these steps: 

  1. Wash regularly: Choose a gentle cycle with cool or warm water and mild detergent. 

  1. Add baking soda: Incorporate about half a cup of baking soda into the wash cycle for additional softening. 

  1. Consider vinegar: If desired, pre-soak your garment in a solution of one part vinegar and two parts water. 

  1. Line drying or gentle tumble drying: Air drying is preferable, the Vileda Soft Care Airer is ideal to reduce wire marks, but if tumble drying, use a low heat setting and add dryer balls or tennis balls. 

How to soften linen sheets 

Caring for linen sheets is similar to the process for clothing: 

  1. Frequent washing: Wash sheets regularly in cool or warm water in a gentle setting. 

  1. Baking soda boost: Use half a cup of baking soda along with your detergent. 

  1. Vinegar option: Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for added softening. 

  1. Air drying is best: Hang your sheets to dry. If needed, use a gentle tumble dry setting with dryer balls. 

Conclusion 

Softening linen is easy. With regular washing and a few additional tricks, you'll transform your linen items into luxuriously soft pieces you'll adore. A little time and attention will pay off in lasting comfort. 

Remember, for top-of-the-line cleaning products after you've taken care of your linen, head to Vileda's website at https://www.vileda.co.uk/ for quality mops, cloths, and other essential cleaning supplies. 

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